A Methodology for Preliminary Design of Mechanical Aircraft Systems

The aerospace industry makes widespread use of methods and tools to support the later stages of the design process, e.g. finite elements analysis and solid modelling. However, there is a lack of support for the early stages which lead up to the embodiment of design concepts. This is a distinct disadvantage because the decisions made in the early stages of the design process have a profound effect on the technical and commercial success of the product. This paper shows how a systematic approach can be taken during preliminary design of mechanical systems. The results are based on a research project involving British Aerospace and Cambridge University Engineering Design Centre during which this methodology was applied to the design of a flight refuelling probe.